This type of halogen bulb has been around for a long time used in many types
of applications where a high wattage is desirable. They are a halogen bulb
like any other halogen except that the filament is longer and is mounted
differently than other types of screw-in sources. Halogen bulbs are filled with a special gas that actually rebuilds the filament and
provides longer average lifespan than normal incandescent bulbs. They come in
different shapes and sizes for various uses. Some common halogen types
are double or single ended, PAR, bipin, MR16, and A-Line or MB. Each of these has a
specific application in lighting but all have the same physical attributes
common to halogen bulbs. Halogen burns about 10 percent brighter,
whiter, and hotter than normal incandescent bulbs. Extra heat is typically not a
benefit, but whiter, bright light is something that is useful in a large number
of lighting applications. This is especially useful in homes where indirect
lighting is used for reading and general illumination.
Controversy has arisen about the hazards of using high wattage halogen bulbs in standard floor lamps. These lamps would, on rare occasion,
cause something nearby (a curtain for example) to catch on fire if it came into
contact with the halogen bulb. This has very little to do with the bulbs being
halogen at all. The high wattage being so close to flammable objects was the
true problem. Whether the bulbs were halogen, standard incandescent, or
whatever, a 500-watt bulb of any kind will generate amazing amounts of heat.
In the case of tochiere lamps, they are an open fixtures exposing the lamp and
the heat it generates to the area around it. It's not hazardous if it's kept
away from flammable materials, so keep in mind where you place these fixtures,
halogen bulbs or not. The ceramic ended halogen is often used in these
indirect applications because the light output is higher than standard bulbs and
the light can be better controlled by reflective material. Double ended halogen light bulbs are available in wide variety
of lengths and wattages as low as 50 watt all the way up to 3800 watts. Of
course, the lengths in different wattages would also vary. It's good to
check the label on your fixture and make sure you have the correct wattage and
length for your fixture. Sometimes in the higher wattages, the voltage can
be higher than a standard 120 volt as well, so be checking the voltage
especially if it's in a commercial application.
Double ended halogen light bulbs should not be touched with your skin in any way. If they
are touched, the life span of the bulb will be greatly reduced. In case you ever
do touch a double ended halogen light bulb, wipe it thoroughly with a soft cloth. Bulbs that
are covered, like the PAR and some of the MR halogen bulbs, are okay to
touch, since you are not touching the actual bulb but a heavy, thick glass that
covers the light bulb. Most commonly, they are put into an enclosure but
be aware of touching a halogen capsule itself directly, is not a good idea as it
will shorten lamp life.
From outdoor flood lighting, indirect lighting or in the living room, you will most likely find
double ended halogen lamps used in many kinds of lighting applications. The
compact size of these halogen lamps make it
possible to put them in almost any small space and produce high illumination.
By clicking the link above, you'll be taken to a page that has our full offering
of this lamp type. If you're having trouble identifying your bulb, please call us and one of our
friendly customer service people will help you!